Getting from Miami to Singapore takes about 24 hours of travel time. Most people will wait to travel such a distance until they have weeks of free time to justify the extended length of time flying. But time is fleeting, and there may never be a good opportunity.

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I learned a valuable lesson a long time ago: four days somewhere is better than no days there. So, I’ve traveled to distant places for short periods of time: a weekend in London, three nights in Alaska, four nights in Tokyo, and three glorious nights in the Masai Mara. So, when the opportunity arose to visit Singapore for four nights, I jumped at it.

The flight (in United’s premium economy) was one of the best I’ve been on. I won’t lie — these long-haul flights can take a toll (and there was one last year that almost wrecked my soul). I will absolutely seek out United next time I’m traveling for its comfortable seats, decent meals, and great service. If you can live without the bed/pods of first class, this is a comfortable alternative.

Singapore’s Changi Airport is often lauded as the best airport in the world for good reason. Immigration is automated and took all of five seconds (so quick that I thought there simply had to be another line awaiting me). I picked up my luggage in another five minutes, and was out the door from the airplane to the car in less than ten minutes.

Where to Stay

The Clan Hotel

This comfortable hotel is located across the street from Chinatown and just two blocks from La Pau Sat, a modern hawker market that’s open 24 hours a day. The hotel is centrally located, the rooms are lovely, and there’s an afternoon tea ceremony for guests. When I checked in, after having traveled about 27 hours at that point, Husaimi, the friendly person at the front desk, noted that it was my birthday on my passport. Not five minutes after I reached my room, there was a knock on the door with a delivery of a small pandan cake.

Where to Eat

I don’t think I’ve eaten as well as in Singapore. From soulful dishes at the hawker markets to a three-Michelin-starred lunch, this is a place where every meal (and every drink) was more memorable than the last.

During the short time I was in Singapore (for the Michelin award ceremony), I ate at one, two, and three-starred restaurants, worked my way through four or five hawker markets, and fell in love with the best coffee place ever. Here’s where I ate.

Culina Market

To call Culina Market the Erewhon of Singapore might be a fitting description. This market began as a purveyor of fine foods to restaurants and evolved into a combination market and café. Everything at this market — located at COMO Dempsey — is precision: a florist makes the most stunning arrangements you’ve ever seen, the wine market is impressive, the fishmonger offers oysters that taste like a mermaid’s kiss, and the produce looks as if a rainbow landed on earth. We didn’t eat there, but did have some fantastic oysters. It’s a lovely place to shop.

Candlenut (One Michelin Star)

Also located at COMO Dempsey, Candlenut is a gorgeous room with bamboo and rattan accents and greenery that gives it a warmth that some Michelin-starred restaurants lack. The food speaks to the chef’s Peranakan roots — descendants of early Chinese immigrants who settled in Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia), intermarried with locals, and developed a distinct hybrid identity. As such, the dishes are familiar yet unique, and extremely soulful: curries, wing bean salad, baby squid, and a hearty soup with tofu balls were some of the dishes we were served. The restaurant offers a tasting menu that rotates, so your dishes might vary, but rest assured, the experience will be as memorable.

Willow (One Michelin Star)

Chef Nicolas Tam’s Willow is a lesson in precision. This intimate restaurant offers a pan-Asian tasting menu that combines Japanese restraint with French technique, and a great playlist. Chef Tam was on hand to supervise the chef’s counter, but really didn’t explain the dishes.

Meta (Two Michelin Stars)

Chef Sun Kim explores Asian cuisine with French influences at the sleek Meta. The tasting menu is seafood-forward, with courses that include tuna, cuttlefish, and abalone.

Les Amis (Three Michelin Stars)

After multiple multi-course tasting menus — plus an entire day eating our way through various hawker markets, we almost cancelled our lunch at Les Amis. Thankfully, we thought better because this was clearly the best meal of the trip — and the best meal (for me) of 2025. The restaurant, located in one of Singapore’s bustling business centers, looks like any power-meal venue — sleek, pretty, and elegant in a nondescript way. In other words, you won’t remember the decor — but you certainly will remember both the service and the food. Chef Sebastien Lepinoy’s love letter for French fare is a lesson in “what to do” when you’re working in the high-stakes three-star galaxy. From the bread service to the amuse bouche to the wine pairings to your thank-you gift of chocolates in a perfect Les Amis tin (which I saved), this is an experience worth every dollar (and star).

Hawker Markets

Loud, boisterious, with tons of sensory overload, the hawker markets of Singapore are legendary. They’re also where local people eat. In many cases, Singaporeans frequent a hawker market daily — sometimes twice a day — for their meals. Here, you can find anything from fresh juices to fish soups with dumplings to bowls of noodles. I would suggest two different markets for their vast differences:

The Chinatown Complex

This massive, two-story market is where you can find just about anything from curry puffs to chili crab to Hainanese chicken rice. Some tips if you go: Bring Singapore Dollars (there is an ATM on the first floor, should you forget), and go at lunchtime at your own risk. We arrived at around 11:30 a.m., and the market quickly flooded with workers on their lunch breaks.

Lau Pa Sat

Open 24 hours a day (technically), Lau Pa Sat is home to Singapore’s famous Satay Street, which sees families grill and sell satay sticks. Most of the stalls are Halal-friendly, so you won’t find much pork — but you won’t miss it. Grab a beer at one of the stands selling beer (there’s one at the very front of the market), and a plate of satay (they’re sold at a minimum of ten), find a spot at a communal table, and enjoy under the stars. Yes — Singapore has some of the finest restaurants in the world — but this might be the most fun you’ll have.

Nanyang Old Coffee

There are a few Nanyang Old Coffee houses throughout Singapore, but the Chinatown location also houses a “museum” on the second floor. It’s more of a place to enjoy coffee surrounded by artifacts, and it’s pretty darn charming. A coffee and toast with kaya jam (a mix of coconut, egg, sugar, and pandan) is the perfect way to start the day.

Where to Drink

Singapore is home to some of the best bars in the world. Each is unique — from the classic to the innovative. Here’s where I drank:

Employees Only

I stumbled on Employees Only after trying to walk off one of my tasting menu dinners. Located on Amoy Street in Chinatown, you’ll pass by a Psychic sign to enter. I asked my bartender to make me something. After asking a few questions, I was handed an herbaceous martini that was exactly what I wanted. The place was bustling on a Tuesday at 11 p.m., and it was the perfect way to ring in the midnight hour.

Atlas

Atlas is simply the most stunning lounge I’ve ever encountered. Its decor is part Rockefeller Center, part giant library in a tribute to Art Deco architecture in all its glory. To mark that point in time, the menu is gin and champagne focused, with interesting takes on classics. Once again, allow your bar professional to assist you. Both my martini and gin and tonic were outstanding. Don’t forget a walk through the sculpture garden just outside.

Nutmeg & Clove

One of Singapore’s most interesting bars — each cocktail at Nutmeg & Clove is based on some aspect of Singaporean history, culture, or life. Your pink-jacketed bartender will hand you a book that tells the story of each cocktail and its flavor profiles. A take on an old-fashioned was perfection. If you'‘re into classic cocktails, visit Last Word just upstairs.

The Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel

Can you even say you were in Singapore if you didn’t get a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar, bro? It might be Singapore’s second most touristy place (behind the Merlion) — so what? It’s a must-do. Sure, with a tip, the cocktail is about $40 USD. Sure, you won’t even be able to walk into the lobby, attended to by its famed Sikh doormen (that’s for guests only). You can, however, walk the grounds, and the bar is gorgeous.

What to Do

Singapore might be one of the most fascinating places I’ve been to, and you absolutely need more than a few days to explore. But I did manage to see plenty, and for that I’m grateful. Here are a few musts.

The Merlion

Half lion, half fish, the Merlion is Singapore’s symbol of a small but mighty island country. The Merlion — located in Merlion Park — offers grand views of the bay and a fantastic photo opportunity.

Gardens by the Bay

This massive park offers a variety of experiences, ranging from cloud forests to a flower dome. The most impressive thing to do is the twice-nightly Supertree show, which is completely free. Arrive early to avoid the crowds, find a spot to sit, and watch these giant electronic trees pulse in time to the music. Shows vary — we watched a 70s disco-themed extravaganza, but there’s everything from classical to holiday to pop music. Be sure your phone is charged — mine died right before the show.

Singapore Sidecars

Many places have tall double-decker bus tours or boats that traverse the harbor, but if you want to get a different view, then take a ride in a vintage Vespa’s sidecar. On my tour, we sped through the city in an exhilarating trip from Chinatown to Arab Street, and back to the Raffles Hotel for a photo op with the doormen (a Singapore sidecar exclusive).

Sri Mariamman Temple

Singapore's oldest Hindu temple is worth a visit. Place your shoes in a locker and borrow a shawl if you’re wearing a tank top. Visitors are free to marvel at the intricate and colorful temple, and even observe a ceremony, though please observe a few places marked for worshippers only.

Changi Airport

Airports are not exactly beloved. They’re filled with stress, usually. Except Changi. This airport is filled with walking paths, rope climbs, places to eat, a shopping mall (that includes a Popmart store for last-minute souvenirs), and gardens. Its masterpiece is the Vortex — the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. It’s a seven-story marvel with walkways at each level so you can discover it in different ways. Plan on getting to the airport HOURS earlier than your flight to explore.

Saturday, Sept. 27, will mark a year since Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina. Throughout the region, rural towns were cut off from help by water and debris, left without power and potable water. Those areas even less fortunate were completely washed away. Helene destroyed more than 125,000 housing units across western North Carolina, damaged a staggering 822,000 acres of timberland, and was responsible for at least 37 deaths, according to WRAL.

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Asheville, a city nestled in the mountains and revered for its near-perfect year-round weather, was hit hard, with areas like Biltmore Village and the River Arts District receiving the most damage. To make matters worse, about 25,000 Asheville residents reported not having power for two weeks. Businesses — including the hospitality industry — were forced to stay closed for two months due to extensive damage to Asheville’s water treatment infrastructure, which meant that clean water wasn’t available to the city until November 18 — nearly two months after the storm had passed.

In a recent JBF conference, held in Asheville, five-time James Beard Foundation award-nominated chef, cookbook author, and founder of Asheville-based Cúrate. Katie Button described the aftermath of the storm and the consequences it had on the community. “We were without power and water, and internet service. It was two whole days before we could be in contact with our employees.”

Button added that as the days and weeks went by, the true economic damage of the storm and its aftermath began to set in. She added that, even with all of its challenges, the resurgence of the restaurant industry was the exact thing that Asheville needed to revive its economy and very soul.

Well, Asheville is back. The mountain city that became a haven for artists, musicians, restaurateurs, and people who want to connect with the land, is welcoming visitors to return to this very magical place.

I recently spent a few days in Asheville, staying, for the most part, in the Downtown area to eat, drink, stroll galleries, and just support. As I spoke to people, they all wanted to stress that visitors were more than welcome — they were needed. As the weather starts to cool in the mountains, planning a weekend (or longer) in Asheville is nothing short of an amazing idea. as chef Button concluded to the roomful of chefs who made their way from across the country to share dialogue and help heal Asheville: “The restaunat industry is too beautiful and too important to let it fail.”

Where to Stay

The Foundry Hotel

The Foundry Hotel has become my Asheville home away from home for many reasons: it’s just a block from Biltmore Avenue (home to many of Asheville’s best restaurants, shopping, breweries, and galleries), and it has a sense of space, culture, and history. The Foundry is housed in a former steel mill that was the source of the city’s steel for buildings, including the Biltmore Estate. The building is located in the historically Black neighborhood of The Block, and the lobby serves as a revolving art space that speaks to its culture and neighborhood.

There’s also a wonderful craft cocktail bar in the lobby called the Workshop Lounge, with live music many evenings. The Refinery is a great place for a hearty breakfast to start your day of exploration.

Where to Eat and Drink

You can’t go wrong when it comes to food in Asheville. The city has turned into a culinary hub that welcomes chefs and restaurateurs from all over the world for its proximity to amazing farms and its sense of community.

Here are some of the places I’ve recently visited, but feel free to discover new favorites.

The Rhu

For years, Rhubarb was one of my favorite restaurants in Asheville for its dishes that explored and revered local ingredients. Sadly, Rhubarb closed this past January after 11 years in service. There is a silver lining, however. The Rhu, the restaurant’s little sister (if you will) is open just a few blocks away. The Rhu is far more casual, serving pastries, sandwiches, soups, and such — but it’s intensely satisfying.

The Bull & Beggar

Located in the RIver Arts District, the Bull & Beggar wa “resurrectd’ in January 2025 after months of rebuliding. I went there with my friend — a generous chef who relocated to Asheville with his family — and we ate out way through the entire menu, it seems. Oysters, anchovy toast, chicken liver crostini for starters — steak frites for the main — and some very well made martinis. I highly recommend a similar feast — paired with the very best of company, of course.

The Admiral

The Admiral will make my list of “best places I’ve eaten in 2025” for its kitschy nautical fish shack decor, its perfectly plump oysters, and its superior steak frites (yes, I had steak frites two days in a row).

Cúrate

I fan girl out to Katie Button’s restaurat, Cúrate. Every time I go, it’s nothing short of perfect. The service is impeccable and friendly, the culinary staff work together in the open kitchen like a ballet, and the food ies exactly what I want to eat every time I eat it. After all, who doesn’t love tapas? And, although it is Spanish tapas, because of the ingredients, the atmosphere, and the people that work there, the restaurant feels very much like an integral thread in the fabric that is Asheville. Also, I defy anyone to not feel intense joy when tucking into a dish of patatas bravas.

White Labs Brewing Company

Being a vegan is tough in many cities, but not in Asheville. This is a city that embraces its plant-loving citizens and visitors and, while I do prefer a pizza with toms of cheese, While Labs’ vegan pizzas are the best I’ve had. My animal loving, plant-based bestie turned me onto this brewery with a laboratory theme and I adored it. The beers are fantastic, especially the Hazy IPA, and there’s a full bar if you’d rather a bourbon than a brew.

This brewery in Downtown Asheville is everything I adore in this world — giant skeletons, live music, and a special beer named “Your Dog Here” where a portion of proceeds are donated to Asheville Humane Society. The beer is great, the brewery is dog-friendly, and it’s Halloween 365 days a year.

What to Do

Hazel Twenty Boutique

If you’re looking for trendy, affordable fashion, Hazel Twenty is a great place to shop. But there’s so much more than just shoppingL Hazel Twenty is my version of heaven. First, the boutique has its own mascot/marketing director: Maisie the Frenchie. This canine fasionista lives to judge you while you take a million pictures of her. Be sure to follow her Instagram page. Did I mention the free glass of bubbly you’ll be offered while you shop? Or the weekend DJ parties? You’’ll love this store so much, you’ll want to move here just to shop (you don’t have to — they have an online boutique). For menwear, there’s Lex 20 right around the corner.

River Arts District

Whatever you do, make sure you visit the River Arts District. This was one of the hardest hit areas of asheville, with the river rushing over (and consuming) many of the shops, artist studios, and restaurants in the neighborhood.

Much of the area is back in business after a legnthy recovery — and the artists and shops want to see you. This walkable area features a vibrant community of over 700 artists, collectives, and galleries, including a glass blowing studio (where you can make your own piece of art).

Be sure to visit Jeffrey Burroughs’ shop. If you’re lucky, this fabulous human will help you pick from some of the most goegeous pieces that are seriously in every price range so you WILL be able to take a piece of Asheville home with you.

American Folk Art

This gallery offers a fantastic selection of American folk art, including unique examples of face jugs, pottery, and pieces from self-taught artists throughout the United States.

In 2007, Oscar Farinetti opened the first Eataly in Torino, Italy, with the idea that it would be more than a grocery store. The shop, which embellished on the traditional market concept with a food hall, classes, and more, was an instant hit. When Eataly came to New York City’s Flatiron neighborhood in 2010, people queued up (sometimes for hours) to sip on prosecco, eat pizza, and shop for pasta and Moka pots.

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There are now more than 50 Eatalys around the globe, with locations from Istanbul to Stockholm. Now the Eataly family is growing with the addition of several more concepts from the first Florida Eataly to the Eataly Caffè in Rockefeller Center (and soon, Hudson Yards), and even an Eataly (of sorts) on a mega cruise ship.

The First Eataly in Florida Opens in a Mega Mall

Eataly will open its first Florida store on Thursday, June 12, inside Aventura Mall. Considered the fifth-largest mall in the United States and housing everything from luxury boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Gucci to budget retailers like the Gap and J.C. Penny, Aventura Mall is a hodgepodge of a shopping destination. The mall, located about halfway between Downtown Miami and Downtown Fort Lauderdale, is undergoing a major expansion that includes its Esplanade area of dining options and specialty stores.

At 30,000 square feet, Eataly Aventura will house two sit-down restaurants, a quick service caffè, a wine store, a cooking school, and a retail market offering both pantry and ready-to-eat products.

The two sit-down restaurants are La Pizza & La Pasta, a 300-seat restaurant offering pizza and pasta, with dishes from Italy’s various regions.

At Il Pastaio (pasta maker), diners can watch their fresh pasta being made. This 90-seat restaurant is more intimate.

The caffè area consists of several different counters, including,

• A Lavazza caffè

• La Pasticceria, a pastry counter with cakes, croissants, and other baked goods

• Il Gelato, offering gelato and sorbetto creations

• Pizza alla Pala, offering a variety of Roman-style pizzas

• Panini, a counter dedicated to focaccia and panini

Eataly at Sea

Just last month, Eataly also launched its Eataly at Sea onboard the MSC World America ship. The mega ship, which sails from Port of Miami and can accommodate 6,762 passengers, offers everything from a giant shark slide and bumper cars to a gin bar and a musical review of “Dirty Dancing”. Eataly at Sea is one of its specialty dining options. Available for an upcharge, the restaurant serves Italian favorites, including freshly made pastas. The concept, frankly, had so much potential for a mini Eataly. Located on the ship’s shopping and dining arcade, this Eataly at Sea could have housed a small boutique with a curated selection of herbs, pastas, and small kitchen gadgets that are easily packable for memorable souvenirs. It also could have held pasta-making and other culinary classes, wine tastings, and so much more. Perhaps Eataly will realize its potential of a captive audience of thousands.

Eataly Caffè

Lastly, the very first Eataly Caffè recently opened in Rockefeller Center, featuring a coffee bar, pastry and gelato counters, grab-and-go fridges, and a curated retail section. Tourists and New Yorkers alike can grab freshly baked cornetti and cappuccino in the morning. There’s also panini and tramezzini, Roman pizza alla pala, salads, and pastas.

Eataly seems to be doubling down on the Caffè concept, opening one in Hudson Yards any day now.

More Eataly

According to Eater New York, Eataly is opening three locations at JFK Airport some time this year. This is all part of Eataly’s planned expansion throughout the U.S. and Canada, targeting malls and city areas.

Since the mid-20th century, the Florida Keys have been one of the country’s premier resort destinations. The island chain, connected by a series of bridges, was beloved by artists, writers, and musicians who flocked here for the romance of the blue waters and laid-back, carefree attitude. Both Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffett were inspired to write some of their best work in Key West, and Bogie and Bacall fell in love in Key Largo.

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In 1969, a small tiki bar in Islamorada became famous for a brand-new drink. Made with dark rum, blackberry liqueur, banana liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice, and grenadine, this drink was the perfect sundowner — a blend of sweet and tart juices blended with potent dark rum from the Caribbean. The drink, combined with Islamorada’s clear waters and reputation for some of the best fishing in the country, made it one of the most sought-after destinations.

For decades, people have flocked to its adjoining hotel, Holiday Isle, for a weekend of fun in the water by day and hanging at the Tiki Bar when the sun sets. In 2018, Hurricane Irma, a powerful Category 4 storm, ravaged much of the Florida Keys, damaging both the Tiki Bar and the hotel, renamed the Postcard Inn. The hotel did reopen after much-needed repairs.

Now, the hotel — and the beloved Tiki Bar — have had a total glow up.

The newly dubbed Three Waters Resort and Marina, Islamorada, A Tribute Portfolio Resort, recently opened under the Marriott Bonvoy Tribute Portfolio umbrella, joining sister Keys properties Amara Cay Resort and La Siesta Resort & Villas (which are all connected via a complimentary water taxi). The refreshed resort offers a variety of activities (mostly water-based), from fishing or SCUBA, with boats accessible from the on-property marina to lazing by the pool.

Where to Eat and Drink

The resort has several restaurants (and that famous bar). Here are some favorites.

The Tiki Bar

The most treasured activity at Three Waters, however, is the one it’s most famous for: cocktailing at the Tiki Bar.

For decades, people have traveled to the Tiki Bar for the weekend for drinks and to take a picture with the famous giant Rum Runner — once the backdrop for hundreds of thousands of happy photos — from Polaroids back in the day to iPhotos most recently. Sadly, the iconic Rum Runner statue was damaged in Hurricane Irma, but like a phoenix rising from its ashes, the Tiki Bar has been given a lovely transformation. As you approach, you’ll be greeted by tiki gods with glowing eyes.

The new version is revitalized and more sophisticated with a retro vibe that’s Mad Men cool. The drinks are the same, if not better. A Rum Runner — the drink that put the Tiki Bar on the map —gives the same exquisite brain freeze as it did back in the ‘60s. The bar also makes a plethora of warm weather favorites such as Painkillers and Mai Tais. In addition, there’s a good selection of local beers, including offerings from two neighboring breweries — Islamorada Brewing Company and Florida Keys Brewing. The Tiki Bar also serves bar snacks such as calamari and edamame hummus. Opt for more traditional “tiki” offerings like the sticky beef skewers, sweet and spicy chicken wings, and coconut tempura shrimp.

Islamorada Pizza Co.

Located on the property, the Islamorada Pizza Co. has some really good pies. Purists will love the Red, White, and Green — a margarita pizza with a touch of basil — but if you’re looking for a Keys experience, go with the Islander, topped with white sauce, Scotch Bonnet Pepper sauce, conch, and tomato-cucumber.

Little Limón

There’s something about eating fresh seafood while you hear the tide rolling in that’s just so satisfying. This second-floor raw bar offers super fresh oysters, ceviche, and crudo with an ocean view.

Kindler Wood-Fired Fare

The resort’s more upscale restaurant, Kindler features wood roasted meats and seafood, cooked in an open kitchen. The restaurant also offers a “catch and cook” service, where the chef will prepare the bounty you caught that day.

Lucky Twist

The best way to cool off from a long day of sun worshipping is with a Rum Runner. The second best way to cool off is with some delicious soft serve. Lucky Twist offers soft serve in both traditional and tropical flavors (everything from vanilla to key lime) conveniently next to the resort’s pool and beach. The soft serve flavors are all vegan and dairy-free so everyone can enjoy them.

Rum Tastings

Three Waters offers complimentary rum tastings for guests, featuring local rums distilled in the Florida Keys, by reservation only. Reserve your spot at the front desk.

Things to Do

MoradaWay Arts & Cultural District

The MoradaWay Arts & Cultural District is the heart of art in the Upper Keys. This six-block walkable corridor is filled with galleries, artist studios, and restaurants. Grab a beer at the Florida Keys Brewing Company and listen to live music in its beer garden or stroll the galleries. The district offers a monthly art walk, held the third Thursday of each month from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring visiting artists, live music, craft beer, and more. If you’ve admired the murals at the Three Waters Resort, visit artist Jul Jankowski’s studio — located behind the brewery.

The Sandbar

Islamorada’s sandbar is legendary. Just a few miles offshore, the sandbar is a gathering place for locals who anchor their boats and hop off to enjoy walking on water (literally). What is there to do at the sandbar? Hang out, drink a beer, and even grab a snack from the floating "food truck”. Wild Dolphin Tours offers snorkeling and sandbar excursions daily. You can also rent a floating tiki hut called the “Tropic Like It’s Hot” from Spray Watersports.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder Exploratorium

This newly opened museum and gift shop teaches how we can interact with dolphins safely. The Exploratorium is also building a first air responder tank for injured dolphins on site. There’s also a great gift shop that includes a “zero waste” collection of soaps and cleaners where you can fill your own containers with product (you can purchase refillable containers).

Sunset Celebrations

For most, when the sun sets, it’s simply the mark of the end of another day. In the Florida Keys, it’s a full-blown celebration complete with music and drinks. Nearly every bar celebrates sunset, but the most popular one in Islamorada is Lorelei, located at MM 82 — just look for the giant Mermaid (also painted by artist Jul Jankowski). Come before sunset for the daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm — which will also ensure you a prime sunset viewing spot (sunsets get crowded). Then, just sit back and let nature put on her show for you. Wait until the sun takes its last final dip into the ocean and watch for the green flash — the elusive phenomenon that occurs when the sun sets with a sudden and intense green flash.

A foie gras cappuccino is a far cry from Tex-Mex and barbecue, but the creative pick-me-up celebrates the evolution of Fort Worth’s culinary scene — and the mind of one of the city’s most pivotal chefs.

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“People come to Fort Worth with certain expectations, without a doubt,” says Fort Worth chef Tim Love. The Iron Chef winner, TV personality, and owner of more than a dozen restaurants in the south continues, “but we know we're not Dallas because we want to be Fort Worth. We are Texas, right?”

Love’s latest tasting menu encapsulates that passion for his city, as well as the longevity of his cuisine. Available between May 2 and 6, Love’s menu consolidates 25 years of his restaurant, Lonesome Dove, into 25 dishes — yes, 25. He then divides those dishes into five categories: sea, air, land, beef, and sweet. That foie gras cappuccino anchors the land bracket alongside the likes of kangaroo larb tacos and rabbit and rattlesnake dumplings. Other notable dishes include grilled Thai dove, snow-aged Wagyu, and duck pozole.

As a whole, these dishes honor Love’s legacy, paying homage to the best of his Stockyards neighborhood restaurant. But, as flights served in five rounds, these dishes also honor one of Love’s favorite byproducts of cooking: They breed conversation. Because each dish arrives at the table alongside four others within its category — rather than one at a time, as often occurs in tasting menus — diners can compare, contrast, and converse.

Even if you’re not visiting Fort Worth this spring, the city creates ample year-round opportunities for discourse around the dinner, lunch, and breakfast tables. Consider the suggestions below your tasting menu for the perfect weekend in Fort Worth — the real Texas, depending on who you ask.

Where to Stay

Hotel Drover

No hotel pays better homage to the history of Fort Worth’s Stockyards neighborhood than Hotel Drover, which feels like a sophisticated, self-aware reboot of your favorite Old Western. Named after the cowboys — “drovers” — who once drove longhorns through the city, the hotel opened in 2021 and greets guests with a tongue-in-cheek charm. Saddles and cow-print chairs crop up in the lobby’s library, while glowing, on-theme cowboy caricatures decorate both the hotel’s interior and exterior. Upon check-in, guests also receive a voucher for luggage tag branding, so you can commemorate your stay.

Where to Eat

For Texas tacos

97 West Kitchen and Bar

The menu of Hotel Drover’s signature restaurant bookends its most popular category with an exclamation point: “Breakfast Tacos!” The menu’s trio of options justify that enthusiasm, pairing steak and eggs, brisket hash, and egg BLT tacos with a hearty serving of potatoes. If you’re not in the mood for tacos, the restaurant has fun with its other entrees and puts a twist on breakfast classics. Choose between a lobster omelet, chilaquiles, or chicken and waffles overlaid with a whiskey maple syrup.

For a lunch akin to art

Café Modern

If you’ve ever wondered just how good a tuna melt can be, this restaurant will show you. Many museum eateries tend to be afterthoughts, but The Modern’s eponymous café rivals any of the city’s best lunch spots. That’s because chef Jett Mora puts art on the plate; just look at his red wine poached pear salad, and you’ll understand how aesthetic ingredients can be. When you’re done with lunch, make sure to stroll through The Modern and pay particular attention to its various sculptures, which are displayed both inside and outside the museum.

For a white tablecloth dinner

Caterina’s

Chef Tim Love’s answer to Italian cuisine, Caterina’s doesn’t allow diners to use their phones inside the dimly lit, close-knit space. Consequently, Caterina’s prompts chit-chat over plates of arancine and beef carpaccio. If your schedule permits, make a reservation for one of Caterina’s monthly wine dinners. Each course of the tasting menu (no, there aren’t 25) comes with a generous pour of wine and an accompanying geography lesson.

Where to Drink

White Elephant Saloon

What better place to grab a beer than at the oldest saloon in Texas? East Exchange Avenue’s trademark saloon stretches back to 1884, with a storied past of cowboys, TV show cameos, and even an 1887 duel. All that history comes to a head in the evening, when you can two-step to live music or just soak up the atmosphere. Cowboy hats adorn the walls, so it wouldn’t be out of place to don one of your own here.

Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall

Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall doubles as a bar and performance space, focused predominantly on a well-stocked roster of musicians. Acts in the intimate, multi-purpose venue have ranged from the Jonas Brothers to The Head and the Heart, though there’s also a bar and lounge where you can get your cowboy boots branded. And, because Tannahill’s falls under the Tim Love-owned umbrella, don’t overlook the menu, which features oysters, traditional bar food, and — finally — smoked meats. You’re in Texas, after all.

What to Do

All the Stockyards Activities

Channel your inner drover throughout the revitalized Mule Alley, where boutiques and luxury brands sell cowboy boots with matching hats — and cowboys lead longhorns up East Exchange Avenue. Every day at 11:30 and 4:00, you can watch a traditional cattle drive and envision the Stockyards of years past. If you want additional context for the street, opt for a guided walking tour and a rodeo show at Cowtown Coliseum.

Fort Worth’s Cultural District

Visit Fort Worth’s Cultural District, and your day will plan itself. Within the span of just a few streets, you’ll find the Kimbell Art Museum, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, among others. There’s also, notably, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which saddles up with information about the often unknown history.

The Michelin Guide revealed its latest restaurants at its home base — France. The awards were held in a ceremony in Metz, with a huge number of restaurants entered into Michelin’s book.

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This year, 57 restaurants earned their first Michelin Star, nine restaurants achieved Two-Star status, and two restaurants were added to the coveted Three-Star status shared by only 151 restaurants in the world, including world-famous names such as Alinea and the French Laundry in the U.S., the Fat Duck and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in the U.K., and Noma in Denmark.

Le Coquillage in Saint-Méloir-des-Ondes, received Three Stars for its dishes that are both “poetic and Transportational”, according to Michelin. Chef Hugo Roellinger’s dishes are, “inspired, striking, and crafted with rare precision, perfectly reflecting the convictions, journey, and imagination of an understated yet enormously talented chef”, says the Guide, which praises the restaurant’s use of local seafood (including the rare Breton blue lobster) and garden produce.

Chef Christopher Coutanceau’s eponymous restaurant earned the other Three Star distinction for his La Rochelle restaurant and its ethos for sourcing sustainable seafood. Coutanceau’s dishes — including a scallop pithvier and head-to-tail sardine — were heralded by Michelin, which noted that he is “at the peak of his culinary powers with cooking that's more precise, refined, and direct than ever”.

Nine restaurants in France earned Two Stars, with six of them upgraded from One-Star status. In Bordeaux, Maison Nouvelle and L’Observatoire du Gabriel received Two Stars. In the Basque Country, Ekaitza received Two Stars, as did Rozó in Marcq-en-Barœul. L’Abysse Monte-Carlo in Monaco, Baumanière 1850 in Courchevel, and L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy in PRovence received Two Stars. In Paris, Sushi Yoshinaga and Blanc received Two Stars — both only a year after earning their first Stars.

In addition to the 57 new One Star restaurants, 10 restaurants earned a Michelin Green Star for sustainable practices. They are Palégrié Chez l’Henri, Osma, Hiély-Lucullus, Les Roseaux Pensants, Auberge des Ruines, FIEF, Restaurant de la Loire, Méson Chalut, Likoké, and Huna Le Restaurant.

Find a complete list of all 654 restaurants listed in the France Michelin Guide, including the 57 new One-Star restaurants, here.

The 2025 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants has been announced today in a live awards ceremony. The results were voted by the 350-person-strong Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a group comprised of culinary experts, chefs, and journalists.

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William Drew, director of content at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, says: "This year's ranking presents a remarkable tapestry of dining establishments across 16 cities, with seven new entries showcasing the exceptional talent and innovative spirit that define Asia's culinary landscape.”

Leading the list at the number one spot is Bangkok’s Gaggan.

The restaurant, self-described as a “food theater with progressive Indian cuisine” is led by Gaggan Anand and is also ranked number 9 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

A former musician, Anand traded in his drum kit for a knife set, training at the Taj Group before working at El Bulli in Spain alongside Ferran Adrià. He opened his first restaurant in Bangkok in 2010. At Gaggan, each dish is assigned an emoji with flavors and techniques that combine Indian, French, Thai, and Japanese influences.

Two Hong Kong restaurants claim the number two (The Chairman) and number three (Wing) spots. Tokyo’s Sézanne nabbed the number four spot on the list, with Seoul’s Mingles rounding out the top five restaurants.

In total, Bangkok and Tokyo lead the rankings with nine restaurants each. Hong Kong is represented with seven restaurants on the list.

Read the entire list here.

Spring is finally here. That means it’s time to shed the coats, leave our caves, and head into the sunshine.

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There’s no better way to celebrate the turn of seasons than on a rooftop with a cocktail. Here are the best in five cities around the country for your imbibing pleasure.

Nashville

White Limozeen

Nashvegas is in eternal bloom at White Limozeen. You’re more than likely to see groups of gals on Bachelorette weekends here than in any other bar on this list and for good reason — out of all of these, this one has a million Instagrammable moments from the gold-flecked champagne jello shots to the giant pink Dolly Parton bust made from chicken wire on the outside patio!

JBJ’s Nashville

Jon Bon Jovi isn’t the only famous musician to open a rooftop bar in Nashville, but this one is pretty great: live music, drinks, and even a tattoo parlor makes this one a must-do in Music City.

New York City

The Terrace at The Times Square Edition

The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens at The Times Square Edition offers a Sunset Menu from 3 to 5 p.m. daily, with light bites, and refreshing cocktails. Enjoy an array of fresh seafood such as East Coast oysters and a shrimp cocktail. The mini martini craze continues here, as well, and are perfect tiny sippers with a view.

The Gansevoort Rooftop Loft

For views of the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, grab a cocktail at this rooftop lounge that includes an excellent wine selection. If the weather turns chilly not to worry — the terrace has operable walls so that guests can enjoy the space in any weather.

Margaritaville Times Square’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar

If you’re looking for a rooftop experience without the velvet ropes, or you forgot your red-bottom heels at home then head up to the 31st and 32nd floors of the Margaritaville Times Square Resort where you’ll find the two-story 5-o Clock Somewhere Bar. Here, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Times Square, the Edge, and other NYC landmarks with a relaxed attitude, no cover charge, and no stress. What would Jimmy Buffett do? He’d drink here.

Chicago

Cindy’s Rooftop

Take a drink outside for a perfect view of Chicago’s famous “Bean” at this lively rooftop lounge on the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. The bar is a destination for tourists and locals alike who come for the view, the drinks, and food by Top Chef contestant executive chef Kaleena Bliss.

Cloud Bar at 360 Chicago

If you’re aiming higher for a drinking experience, at 94 floors above street level Cloud Bar is the “elevated” experience you’re looking for. Time your arrival for just before sunset (which is also the busiest time for the bar), to watch the city turn golden, then indigo as the skyline lights up before you.

Houston

Z on 23

Houston’s highest rooftop bar, Z on 23 offers cocktails and bites on the 23rd floor of Houston’s Le Méridien hotel.

Terrace 54

This laid back bar at the Texas Medical Center offers everything from cocktails to coffee (for those that want to enjoy a zero-proof view).

Miami

Sugar

High above the bustle of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood rises Sugar on the 40th floor of the East Miami hotel. The bar offers panoramic views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay in a lush setting.

Sipsip Rum Bar

For a departure from Miami’s “too loud to enjoy anything” vibe, head to Coconut Grove’s Mayfair House Hotel for a quieter respite. This rooftop lounge pays homage to Coconut Grove’s Bahamian roots with delicious rum libations, great music, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Torno Subito Miami

Skip the dining room at chef Massimo Bottura’s Miami restaurant and opt, instead, for aperitifs and pizza on the rooftop patio. Between the decor, the music, and the sunset, it’s no crime to mistake Miami for Milan.

Jeremy Ford is having his moment.

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The Top Chef Season 13 winner and executive chef at Miami Beach’s Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed has been busy. Ford, who is also behind The Butcher’s Club at the PGA Resort in West Palm Beach, recently opened a second location of the award-winning restaurant at Resorts World in Las Vegas and has founded Ford’s Farm, a small five-and-a-half-acre farm in Florida’s Redland community.

Ford has once again expanded his reach— this time to the Florida Keys — with the opening of Salt + Ash at the Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key. The resort is located at Mile Marker 61 on the famed Overseas Highway, about a three-hour drive from Miami, a 90-minute drive from Key West, or a quick 15-minute drive from Marathon Airport.

At Salt + Ash, Ford utilizes a cornucopia of fresh seafood at his doorstep, along with produce from his small farm, just a few hours away. He takes advantage of these resources with dishes that touch upon his fine dining expertise but still remembers that this restaurant is in a family-friendly resort in the Florida Keys.

The term “barefoot elegance” is thrown around too much these days, but Ford’s new restaurant means it with a menu that includes caviar service and a raw seafood tower, as well as wood-fired pizzas and a Smashburger.

Ford and his team, led on premises by executive chef Kyle Campbell, excel at it all.

was invited to eat at the restaurant and the standouts included a beautiful dish of organic tomatoes grown at his farm, served with stracciatella and drizzled with basil oil; charred jerk carrots, and butternut squash agnolotti with crisped sage. It’s always a good dinner for me when the chef respects vegetables as much as proteins and Ford did not disappoint.

Ford is also always super upbeat, and the friendly vibe translates to a positive experience. When I dined at Salt + Ash, Ford was there, bouncing from the open kitchen to the booth where his wife, Maria, sat with their children. At the end of the dinner service, Ford could be seen twirling his little girls. His passion for food is only rivaled by his passion for his family.

After the dinner, I caught up with Ford, who told me that he spent his childhood going to the Florida Keys, where the family would stop for conch fritters and fish sandwiches. He said that the idea of opening a restaurant in the Florida Keys appealed to him both for the proximity to his farm, which is the source of about half the vegetables on the menu; and for the rich bounty from the ocean. “None of my restaurants can ever have fish as fresh as here. Period. Point blank. Here, we can get a wahoo come in on Monday, and we’ll serve it Tuesday.” Ford is also enamored with the region’s Key West pink shrimp. “They’re super tiny, little, tender shrimp that are so delicate and perfect.” Ford uses them steamed for seafood towers and in composed dishes.

With solid resources in play, Ford decided on a menu of items that he and his family would want to eat: pizza, pasta, crudo, and fresh fish — but with chef-driven techniques. “If you want a Smashburger we have it. But we also have a crudo that has 19 components, we have that too.”

Since its opening just weeks ago, the response has been overwhelming — especially with the local residents of the Keys. “People have sent me hand-written letters welcoming me,” says the chef.

With one Michelin-starred restaurant under his belt and the Michelin Guide expanding its reach throughout Florida (previously only Miami, Orlando, and Tampa restaurants were eligible for the guide), there’s an obvious question: Will Ford shoot for a star at Salt + Ash? “Michelin is always going to be something that we hold in high regard. Just the ability to be able to be in the Michelin conversation is the lifeline of what we do.” Ford then made a startling confession. “I grew up as a 15-year-old kid wanting a Star. I knew I had to have one before I died.”

Ford muses on the award. “Earning a Michelin Star is the driving force in everything we do. Can we achieve it here? Can we achieve it in a potential Fort Lauderdale restaurant? We’ll try.” With all this Michelin talk, Ford remains grounded. “More important than Michelin is to make delicious food. Make it craveable. That’s the driving force behind everything we do.”

With Ford having his time to shine, I ask him what he wants the next five or ten years to look like. Will he build on his empire? Shoot for the much-lauded Two-Stars? Open a new concept in Napa or New York? “I don’t want to lose sight of being a great dad,” he says. “As much as the business and growth mean to me, a big part of success isn’t the restaurants you have, but the people that surround you: My kids, my wife, my chef Kyle. Sometimes you grow too much too fast. If that’s what it would cost — my family and my relationships — then I’d rather have a few restaurants and a farm.”

At 268,596 square miles, Texas is a formidable state that would take you weeks or even months to explore.

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When I was invited to Houston, I jumped at the opportunity. I’d only been to Texas once for a work meeting in Dallas, and I knew I was remiss in not exploring further.

My plane to Houston was delayed, so when I finally arrived, it was late, and all I wanted was some food. Thankfully, some wonderful people pointed me in the direction of a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant that happened to have the most comforting burger I’ve had in ages. That was just the tip of the iceberg.

Where to Stay

Hotel Zaza Museum District

If you like eclectic hotels, the Hotel Zaza is your kind of place. Each suite is decorated with a different theme, from a space-themed “Houston We Have a Problem” to the romantic “An Affair to Remember”. The hotel is located in Houston’s Museum District, close to the zoo, where you can visit Akobi, the zoo’s four-and-a-half-year-old pygmy hippo.

Where to Eat

Candente

Not your usual Tex-Mex, this Michelin-recommended place offers traditional fare like enchiladas and nachos made with brisket cooked low and slow. The food is excellent, and the portions are huge. Bring a friend (or four), and you’ll still be taking food home.

Koffeteria

French pastries, kolaches, and more from a Cambodian chef await at this adorable little local place in east Downtown Houston. The menu rotates, but if the persimmon lemon scone is available, grab it!

Nancy’s Hustle

Arriving in Houston on a Sunday night after a delayed flight, I was just searching for anything open. Nancy’s Hustle not only keeps its kitchen open until 11 p.m. six nights a week, but it was one of the coolest places with the most amazing food. I’m surprisingly picky, so I love getting a menu and being puzzled by a serious cornucopia of things I want to eat, but every single item sounded delicious. Whatever you decide, do not miss the butter dumplings with sauerkraut (they will make you a half portion so you can try a few different items if you’re solo). After a long day at the airport, I needed the hug of a cheeseburger, and Nancy’s makes a divine one, served on an English muffin with American cheese, pickles, and red onion. It’s no surprise that this charming, lively, little, unassuming place has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

Where to Drink

Lei Low

When the Uber drops you off at a lonely little strip mall outside of Downtown Houston, you might think they made a mistake. That is, until you walk in and see the nautical decor and take in the scent of fruit juices and dark rum. For all its tiki kitsch, this isn’t a tourist trap. It’s a neighborhood bar that just happens to serve potent Mai Tais.

St. Arnold Brewing Company

There’s nothing better than grabbing a fresh pint of beer and enjoying a beer garden on a sunny afternoon. St. Arnold’s comes complete with a water fountain for an added touch of zen. In keeping with its theme (the patron saint of beers), the indoor taproom is fashioned like a cathedral, complete with stained windows.

La Carafe

If you like a good ghost story with a side of history, grab a glass of wine at La Carafe. This cash-only bar is housed in a building built in 1837 and is said to be haunted by various spirits, including a “woman in white”. The bar leans into its spooky status, hosting tarot readers and annual seances.

What to Do

Visit Hou Deng and Friends at the Houston Zoo

Moo Deng started a pygmy hippo frenzy, for sure. Did you know, however, that the Houston Zoo has a pygmy hippo that’s as adorable? Four-year-old Akobi is a 477-pound pygmy hippo that recently took up residence at the Houston Zoo. Although his name is lovely (and means “first born” in Yoruba), Houstonians have nicknamed this adorable guy Hou Deng, a nod to the famous Moo Deng who causes the cutest chaos over in Thailand. While you’re there, don’t forget to say hi to the newborn baby elephant, Kirby, who was just born a few months ago. You can also feed the giraffes, ride a jungle-themed carousel, and drink local beer.

Meow Wolf Houston

Meow Wold Houston Radio Tave is one of the newest Meow Wolf exhibitions. You first enter into an old-timey radio station that kinda looks like a WKRP doppelganger before all hell breaks loose, and you’re lost in some alien-run space/time warp. Each door leads to another psychedelic adventure and each button you press or knob you turn changes your perspective. What makes the Houston location unique is that it’s the first Meow Wolf to have its own bar. And what a bar it is! Cowboix Hevvven is a fully immersive honkey tonk from hell where you can drink Jack Daniels, eat hot dogs, and hang out with space cowboys, beings from beyond, and other creatures of the imagination. Have you ever played pool with an actual pool shark? You can at Cowboix Hevvven!

This week we’re spotlighting another friend of Broken Palate — Way to Go, by the creators of Fathom, which shares insider travel tips to some of the world’s most interesting destinations.

Planning a trip to Venice? You’ll want to savor every bar and restaurant on this list.

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One city, made of 118 islands, filled with thousands of treasures, seen by millions of tourists. Look, it’s popular for a reason, and you shouldn’t be discouraged from planning a trip to Venice, though we strongly suggest a visit in the off-season because this gorgeous city is the global poster child for overtourism, and we all need to do our bit to alleviate this. Anyway, it’s better in April than in August.

Restaurants

No, you’re not imagining it. Seafood is the name of the game around here.

al Covino — Venetian cuisine with Neapolitan accent.
al Covo — seasonal menu inspired by the fishy bounty of the lagoon.
al Giardinetto — traditional seafood with a lovely garden.
Anice Stellato — out of the way? No, worth the walk.
Antiche Carampane — sorta hidden, totally beloved seafood trattoria.
Bacán — Latin American flavors, fun, and mezcal.
Corte Sconta — updated take on Venetian classics.
da Fiore — excellent bacaro in front, trattoria in back.
da Riccardo — don’t argue. Eat whatever he feeds you.

Il Paradiso Perduto — Cannaregio favorite for food and music.
Koenji — Japanese-Italian fusion in San Polo.
La Bitta — when you need a carnivorous break from fish.
Lineadombra — summer lunch on the over-water terrace.
Osteria Al Pesador — osteria with outdoor tables off Rialto.
Osteria alle Testiere — hardly a secret but still delicious.
Osteria di Santa Marina — traditional seafood with a creative edge.
Quadri — the finest innovative fine dining.
Quadrino — gorgeous, casual bistro in a historic coffeehouse.
Ristorante da Ivo — tiny, beloved celeb hangout.
Taverna al Remer — snag a cozy table by the fireplace.
Venissa — make a day of a meal on Mazzorbo island.

Bars and Bacari

Ombra translates as “shadow,” and is the order for a glass of wine. Happy hour calls for a spritz, but please hold the Aperol and order the local bitter: spritz al Select. Bacari are bars that serve cicchetti, those small, bite-sized snacks you can (and should) consume by the dozen.

Al Mercà — so authentic and cool, it doesn’t have a website.
All’Arco — no website either; order all the baccalà.
Bacareto da Lele — hole in the wall giving good vibes.
Bacaro ae Bricoe — canalside snacks in Cannaregio.
Bar Longhi — primo people watching over martinis at Gritti Palace.
Birreria Zanon — when you can’t face another spritz, have a beer.
Cantina do Mori — the oldest tavern in town; no website.
Estro — elevated wine bar and gourmet bistro
Il Mercante — tiny lounge built for romance.
Naranzaria — our go-to for cicchetti near Rialto.
Osteria Bancogiro — our other go-to for cicchetti near Rialto.
Ozio Venice — natural wines in a beautiful campo.
Vino Vero — sommelier-fave specializing in small producers.

Cafes, Bakeries, Gelato

Bacaro del Gelato — artisanal gelato cones, swirls, and concoctions.
Caffè Florian — St. Mark’s pretty coffeehouse since 1720.
Gran Caffè Quadri — St. Mark’s other pretty coffeehouse since 1775.
Dal Nono Colussi — order a fugassa baked on site.
Farini — tasty pizza on the go; multiple locations.
Pasticceria Rizzardini — come for fried brioche veneziane alla crema.
Pasticceria Rosa Salva — get a box of baicoli cookies for the flight home.
Pasticceria Tonolo — if it’s Carnevale, order the frittelle.

It’s snowing in most of the United States, and wind chill factors have the Midwest in the negative digits, so it’s fine time to start daydreaming of digging your feet into the sand with a drink in your hand.

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Thousands of people will be traveling to Miami Beach this weekend for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (if you’re going and you need any Miami Beach tips, send a note and I’ll be happy to help).

If you’re still looking for a warm-weather getaway, two upcoming festivals should be on your radar.

The Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival

The third annual Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival celebrates the food and culture of the islands of the Bahamas with a multi-day extravaganza that features brunches, dinners, parties, and a food tour of Nassau hosted by Michael Symon.

The festival will also feature special performances by the Grammy-winning Baha Men at its Tacos & Tequila event and a special evening with Jamaican-American reggae artist Shaggy for a late-night performance at the festival’s Jerk Jam.

Celebrity chefs hosting events include Alon Shaya, Bobby Flay, JJ Johnson, José Andrés, Kardea Brown, Katie Lee, Michael Symon, and Michael White, alongside local Bahamian chefs and restaurateurs Julie Lightbourne of renowned Sip Sip, Kenneth McKenzie of McKenzie’s Fresh Conch, and Wayne Moncur of Sun & Ice, and more.

Best of all, festival proceeds support the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, which helps to save and preserve marine life and their habitats through the waters of the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

The festival, now in its third year, is one of the best-run food festivals, with a stunning setting, delicious food, and plenty of drinks and fun to be had, thanks, in part to South Beach Wine & Food Festival founder, Lee Brian Schrager; and Randy Fisher, founder of CREaM (Culinary Related Entertainment and Marketing), who are responsible for helping program the event.

The festival runs from Wednesday, March 12 through Sunday, March 16 at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort. Tickets are on sale now at npiwff.org.

The Puerto Rico Wine & Food Festival

Puerto Rico is a small island that packs a huge punch when it comes to food and culture. From the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, to the bustling beachfront of Condado to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, Puerto Rico is a stunning destination.

Now, there’s even more reason to book a visit: the Puerto Rico Tourism Company has just announced the inaugural Puerto Rico Wine & Food Festival. More than 50 chefs, including Mario Pagán, Andrew Zimmern, Michael White, José Santaella, Anne Burrell, Antonia Lofaso, and Maneet Chauhan will participate in four days of dinners, parties, a “power lunch” series, and seminars. The event centers around the iconic La Concha Hotel and other venues on the island.

Events include Barrio Bites, Ritmo y Raíces, and the “grand tasting” — La Gran Placita at Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña.

The festival will incorporate locally sourced products including coffee, produce, and artisanal goods to support local farmers and entrepreneurs. The festival also supports Puerto Rico Eats for Good, a year-round charitable program focused on promoting culinary and wine education through scholarships and career development opportunities.

The festival runs Thursday, April 3 through Sunday, April 6 at La Concha Resort in San Juan. Purchase tickets at wineandfoodpr.com.

Lexington isn’t the capital of Kentucky — that title goes to Frankfort — but “Bourbonland” may be the better accolade. With 18 bourbon distilleries, the Lexington area nurtures a combination of traditional bourbon institutions and contemporary businesses that push the whiskey forward.

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Yet while the city leads with bourbon, Lexington soaks up its spirited reputation with an equally satisfying culinary scene, in which restaurants do more than make your meals. Take Smithtown Seafood, which shares space and produce with nonprofit and aquaponics farm FoodChain Lex. Then, there’s Epping’s on Eastside, where everything from Middle Eastern dips to Korean spices inspires tapas-style shareables.

Many of Lexington’s businesses also double as community-focused concepts. Where else can you sip on a shochu sour while local glassblowers bend glass into glittering pumpkins — or share pastries at a cafe dedicated to substance abuse recovery?

If you’re only in Lexington for a weekend, your time is as precious as a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle, so you may want to reserve a food tour with Bites of the Bluegrass. Or, head to any of the places below to sample a scope of the city.

Where to Stay

The Manchester Hotel

The Manchester opened in Lexington’s Distillery District in 2023, but it’s already established itself as one of the city’s most stylish getaways. The lobby’s artful decor and dark brick and wood panels pair best with a smooth glass of bourbon; the hotel feels elegant, intricate, and warm — the perfect setting for the various brand advertisements and commercials set onsite. This level of detail extends to the rooms, where ultra-spacious showers require a few steps before guests reach their Le Labo products.

The food lives up to the space. Hotel restaurant Granddam specializes in elevated comfort dishes. Don’t miss the crispy fried chicken with orzo macaroni and cheese or the wood-fired mushrooms with cornbread. After dinner, snag an indoor or outdoor table at the rooftop tiki bar, Lost Palm. The colorful, tropical decor plays with kitsch so well that it’s as cool as a kitten on a snowdrift.

What to Do

Nearly 50 distilleries overlap with the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but that headcount has nothing on Lexington’s farms. Some 450 horse farms crop up across the city — and that’s not counting Keeneland, which runs both thoroughbred auctions and races.

Even if you’ve toured other race tracks like Louisville’s Churchill Downs or Saratoga Race Course, Keeneland feels distinctly communal and intimate, while still maintaining a high-end, curated feel. A visit to the track alone can turn anyone into a horse girl, though fans of horses and their film presence shouldn’t miss the track’s library. The archives house an autograph from Queen Elizabeth and a hoof from Secretariat himself. Movie buffs will find it interesting that parts of the 2010 thoroughbred biopic were filmed at the track.

Where to Eat

Breakfast

DV8 Kitchen

You never need a reason to eat cinnamon rolls, but here’s one anyway: Lexington’s DV8 Kitchen provides second-chance employment opportunities by hiring people in recovery from substance abuse. The cinnamon rolls are just as good as the cafe’s purpose, and, like pancakes for the table, are best enjoyed alongside a savory entree. That’s because DV8 offers a rotation of specialty, seasonal flavors. Think: blueberry cream cheese, pumpkin spice, and caramel apple cinnamon rolls, preceded by a biscuit and fried green tomato eggs benedict.

Off to the races after breakfast? Caffeinate with a latte or chai from DV8’s neighbor, Manchester Coffee Co.

Lunch

Pearl’s

If Lexington is Bourbonland, New York and Montreal are Bagel-land — but that doesn’t mean you can’t find Northeast-worthy bagels down south. Pearl’s combines the fluffiness of New York (and New Jersey) bagels with the wood-fired density of Montreal’s take on the carb. That texture works great with just cream cheese, better as a bagel sandwich, and best alongside coffee in a cozy booth. Come afternoon, Pearl’s repurposes its wood-fired oven to make artisanal pizzas inspired, once again, by two places of distinctive dough traditions: New York and Naples.

Dinner

Carson’s

For Southern staples, look no further than Carson’s, which has two locations in Lexington. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, Carson’s incorporates bourbon throughout its menu; a sriracha bourbon barbecue sauce coats sweet and spicy ribs, while the shaved prime rib sandwich layers provolone and mozzarella with onions and bourbon mushrooms. The meal may be hearty but don’t discount dessert. Whipped cream, silky caramel, and flambéed banana overlay Carson’s bourbon bread pudding — yet another example of the spirit’s versatility.

Where to Drink Bourbon

The Innovative

Bespoken Spirits

Compared to Kentucky’s long-standing bourbon brands like Maker’s Mark and Castle & Key, Bespoken Spirits is new to the game, yet already carving out its own path. The distillery prides itself on using less wood, water, and energy to distill bourbon than traditional methods. To see if the technique works, stop at the distillery’s West Loudon Avenue tasting room. Your best bet is to taste Bespoken’s bourbon both neat and in a fun cocktail like a smoked old fashioned.

The Educational

Fresh Bourbon

If you’re new to drinking bourbon, the spirit may feel inaccessible or daunting — a challenge Fresh Bourbon addresses on its tasting tour. The Lexington bourbon brand not only affords you the chance to try its signature spirit but also conducts a fun lesson on how, exactly, to discern the bourbon’s flavors.

A bourbon tasting comes with small bites of honey, chocolate chips, cinnamon toast crunch, pecans, and raisins — all intended to draw out tasting notes. There are also scent pairings to compare with the spirit’s aromas, before it’s time to make your own old fashioned. You’ll get to choose between bitters, like Aztec chocolate and black walnut, and personalize Fresh Bourbon’s bourbon to your preferences.

The Institution

Buffalo Trace

For avid bourbon drinkers, Buffalo Trace requires no introduction. The distillery is a well-oiled machine, with a Kentucky location that’s not a storefront but a 400-acre campus. You can reserve a variety of tours depending on how much time you have, or simply stop in for a tasting. No matter how you choose to experience Buffalo Trace’s grounds, make sure to peruse the retail shop. There, you can pick up a bottle of the daily bourbon on sale, whether it’s Eagle Rare or collector favorite Blanton’s.

Where to Drink Everything Else

With a Song

Tee-Dee’s Progressive Club

At Tee-Dee’s, it doesn’t matter what you’re drinking — though it’s Lexington’s best bar scene every Monday night. The jazz club places blues musician and singer Tee Dee Young front and center, where he performs for those in the know. Order a cold beer, a glass of bourbon, or anything that goes well with Bluegrass. Hint: That’s pretty much everything.

With a Show

Trifecta

For another cultural experience, head to Trifecta: a glassblowing studio on Walton Avenue that turns into a chic speakeasy most afternoons. In the intimate, dimly-lit space, you can order seasonal cocktails that blend flavors like yuzu and black pepper syrup or stick with bourbon in the form of an old fashioned. Once you have your drink, don’t settle into the plush lounge chairs just yet. Instead, step through the back door and into the garage, where expert craftsmen weld glass in plain sight. The process is as mesmerizing as the drinks are memorable.

From mid-November to the end of December, most of us are wrapped in a whirlwind of anticipation. Somehow we get caught up in the fantasy of lights, gentle snowfalls, and Mariah Carey asking us for our hand as she assures each one of us that we’re all she needs to be happy.

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Then January hits.

Though the calendar tells us that the days are, in fact, growing longer, the nights still feel like forever. That pristine snow is now a pile of gray frozen gunk on street corners, and the twinkling lights have all been ripped down and boxed up until next year.

The only thing to do about the winter doldrums setting in is to plan a trip. We here at Broken Palate understand wanderlust. We also understand not having the resources for a two-week expedition. But there might just be enough time for a weekend refresh.

We love a weekend getaway where we can meet new people, eat delicious food, wander museums, and listen to music.

We’ve written about these adventures, letting you know where we’ve stayed, what we ate, and why we loved it in the hopes that you, too, can get inspired. Here’s a wrap-up of where we went in 2024, in the hopes that our travels will inspire you, too.

We’d love to hear where you went in 2024 — and if you have suggestions on what cities to visit and where to eat in 2025. We hope the new year brings you wonder, joy, and deliciousness wherever the road takes you.

A Weekend in Talkeetna, Alaska

Denali views, cold beer, a cat mayor, and more

Just two hours north of Anchorage and halfway to the entrance to Denali National Park, Talkeetna is best known as the gateway to Denali. Serious alpinists daring to climb one of the seven summits use Talkeetna as their base, hiring a plane to take them to Denali Base Camp for the two-week-long summit push.

A Weekend in Exuma

Luxury resorts, fresh seafood, and swimming pigs make for a blissful adventure

For years, I’ve wanted to meet the famous swimming pigs of the Bahamas. So, this time, when the opportunity for a short weekend in Exuma presented itself, I jumped!

A Weekend in Anguilla

Food, drink, and relaxation in the Caribbean’s culinary capital

Anguilla may only span 35 square miles, but the island packs plenty of punch both through rum and restaurants. Widely regarded as the Caribbean’s culinary capital, Anguilla claims it has more restaurants per capita than New York City.

A Weekend in Lake Forest

Just north of Chicago, find cocktails, high tea, and an F. Scott Fitzgerald connection

The Bear has all eyes on Chicago’s restaurant scene, but veer north of the city for a chic afternoon tea, a giant slice of cake, and some of Chicagoland’s most creative cocktails.

A Weekend in Napa Valley

Good food, great wine, and an owl named Hootbert await you in St. Helena

Though Napa and Yountville get the most press, St. Helena is a lovely town in the Napa Valley. This little town of about 5,400 permanent residents boasts several wineries and tasting rooms minutes from the charming Downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and (you guessed it) more tasting rooms.

A Weekend in Fort Lauderdale With Dogs

Dog-friendly stays, bars, and restaurants make this a perfect canine-compatible retreat

Visitors to Fort Lauderdale are treated to pristine beaches, gorgeous luxury hotels, and a fantastic food scene that offers diverse cuisines at various price points. The city is also home to some fantastic breweries, food halls, and independent coffee shops — most dog-friendly.

A Weekend in Toronto

Dozens of breweries, international dining, art, and shopping

When I was invited to go to Toronto to try out both its Museum and Brew Passes, I immediately said yes: A weekend of art and craft beer seems like the perfect way to spend an autumn weekend.

A Weekend in Calgary

Cowboy boots and Flames jerseys are optional, though highly recommended

Nothing better exemplifies Calgary’s attention to detail than its food scene, which fuses the culinary variety of any major city with the charm and flair of Western Canada.

A Weekend in Aspen

Stunning views, après-ski, bespoke cowboy hats, and a Kevin Costner encounter

While you can spend a weekend in Aspen just shopping and strolling, it’s undeniably a ski town as evidenced by the exquisite view of the mountains no matter which way you turn. Take some time to stroll the John Denver Sanctuary and you’ll likely find fresh animal tracks in the snow — a gentle reminder that you’re in one of the most beautiful (and still very wild) parts of the United States yet minutes from five-star hotels and other creature comforts.

For years, Aspen has been a winter wonderland for the rich and famous, but this winter, the snowy resort has gotten super hot.

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Fueled by a lavish wedding rumor between Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez and celebrity sightings of Mariah Carey (fresh off her “Queen of Christmas” duties). Jennifer Lopez, Kate Hudson, and Kevin Costner (who owns the Dunbar Ranch a few minutes from town); this lush ski resort is officially the “it” destination for the season.

I just returned from Aspen and, even with all these celebrity sightings, the town manages to retain its small-town Western mountain vibe. For instance, while there is a Hermès shop in town, it’s flanked by little mom-and-pop places and although you can spend hundreds of dollars on a meal, there are also indie sandwich shops, dive bars, and coffee places.

And, while you can spend a weekend in Aspen just shopping and strolling, it’s undeniably a ski town as evidenced by the exquisite view of the mountains no matter which way you turn. Take some time to stroll the John Denver Sanctuary and you’ll likely find fresh animal tracks in the snow — a gentle reminder that you’re in one of the most beautiful (and still very wild) parts of the United States yet minutes from five-star hotels and other creature comforts.

Where to Stay

If you have unlimited means, Kevin Costner’s Dunbar Ranch is available for vacation rentals. The ranch, named after Costner’s character in Dances With Wolves, consists of three residences on 160 acres of pristine lakeside wilderness with mountain views just a few minutes from town. There’s also a baseball field to play out your Field of Dreams moments. The ranch costs $36,000 per night to rent out.

Back to reality, Aspen has a host of beautiful properties that are a bargain when comparison shopping to the ranch.

I stayed at the W Aspen, a charming hotel that offers contemporary ski chalet vibes and is located around the corner from the Aspen Mountain Gondola which takes you to the top of the mountain.

I arrived just before midnight after my connecting flight was canceled and we had to drive from Denver, and I was warmly greeted with a much-welcomed glass of sparkling rose (there’s also local craft beer if you prefer). My king room was decorated in what I would call, “Don Draper goes skiing”, with a faux fireplace vent over the honor bar, cozy fur throws, and a lighted vanity area. Most welcome was a humidifier in the closet — a must when mixing altitude with apres ski time to stave off headaches, I was advised.

If you come to Aspen to enjoy winter sports, the W Aspen also has ski storage (if you’re bringing your own gear), a ski rental shop (if you decide to hit the slopes after all), and a rooftop complete with hot tub and fantastic views. The property also has a daytime dining room, 39 Degrees, that transforms into the HaSalon pop-up in the evenings, along with Hidalgo, a superior tequila bar (more on that later).

Where to Eat

Swedish Hill

If you’re looking for lunch with a view, head to the Aspen Art Museum. Take in some of the exhibits (the museum is free), then head to the rooftop for lunch at Swedish Hill. This restaurant offers salads, sides, pastries, and sandwiches paired with a direct view of Aspen Mountain.

Sundeck

Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, you simply must ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the peak of Aspen Mountain. There, at 11,212 feet, catch breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains and grab a bite at Sundeck. The casual restaurant also houses a Lavazza coffee bar in the mornings and a full-service bar. Take your Aperol Spritz to the patio to enjoy the vistas après-ski.

Ajax Tavern

At the base of Aspen Mountain, Ajax Tavern offers bistro fare with a ski lodge slant (think giant mounds of truffle fries, a grilled cheese-and-tomato soup combo, and cheese fondue to share). Sit outside under the heat lamps on a sunny day and watch the snowboarders finish their run so close that you’ll frequently get hit with the lightest waft of chill snow from their shred.

Aspen Public House

The perfect place for a quick snack or a beer, Aspen Public House gives off an authentic old-school vibe. There’s a good local craft beer selection, along with good pub grub.

Matsuhisa

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Aspen restaurant offers fresh fish, an outstanding wine collection, and celebrity sightings. Jeff Bezos recently bought out the restaurant for a dinner party last week. You can do that, or just make reservations for two.

HaSalon

At first, it might seem interesting that Major Food Group decided to open chef Eyal Shani’s experiential Mediterranean concept, HaSalon as a pop-up at the W Aspen Hotel instead of, say, a sure thing like Carbone. But on opening night, the restaurant was popping with celebrities, influencers, and partiers who waved white napkins, sipped cocktails, and dined on beet carpaccio and steak and tomato ovaries (as it was noted on the menu). If you’re looking for a romantic place to canoodle by a fire, HaSalon isn’t it…but if you’re seeking a high-energy, DJ-driven night to remember with friends, this is a good choice.

Steak House No. 316

For a more traditional experience, Steak House No. 316 fits the bill. Located in a darling little house, Steak House No. 316 gives off a lively yet intimate “Wild West Bordello” vibe. Large portions, perfectly cooked meats, and well-made cocktails make this a great choice for dinner.

Where to Après-Ski

J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome

Years back, J-Bar was home to cowboys and miners. Now — it’s socialites and celebs that come to knock back a few in the modern-day ritual known as après-ski. Grab a craft beer or a sparkling rose and channel Hunter S. Thompson — a regular in his day.

Bad Harriet

Beneath the historic Aspen Times building you’ll find Bad Harriet, named after the wife of the Hotel Jerome’s original developer and proprietor, Jerome B. Wheeler. Bad Harriet feels like the place where wealthy silver miners of yore would go to celebrate a good day. Cocktails are truly innovative and presented in gorgeous vintage glassware. This is a stunning place to sip a libation or two.

Hidalgo

Employees Only’s Dushan Zarić only opened Hidalgo, an agave spirits bar at the W Aspen, a few weeks ago yet it’s the hottest place in town for people who prefer a good cocktail and great vibes over the “see and be seen” clubs. The margarita I had might well be the best one in 2024, which says a lot since I’ve had my share. Open late, Hidalgo is the place to go to meet interesting people and sip on interesting drinks. A total win-win.

Things to Do

Skiing and Snowboarding

Scratch Aspen’s fabulous surface and you’ll find a town meant for outdoor sports at its heart. That means hiking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The Aspen Snowmass area has multiple alpine and cross-country ski trails, including Aspen Mountain, which is so close, you’ll see people walking with their ski boots onto the Gondola.

John Denver Sanctuary

Though John Denver was born in New Mexico, he will forevermore be synonymous with Colorado. Denver fell in love with Aspen and made it his home. He wrote Annie’s Song while skiing Aspen Mountain after a tiff with his wife, and the entire town resonates with his voice. The John Denver Sanctuary, a short walk from the gentle bustle of the downtown shopping district, provides a beautiful space to commune with nature. Nestled alongside the Roaring Fork River, the sanctuary offers a garden where Denver’s lyrics are carved in stones. On a recent visit, the sanctuary was covered in fresh snow and the tracks of rabbits, squirrels, deer, elk and more could be found near the river. Truly a magical moment.

Kemo Sabe

Aspen is no stranger to high-street shopping. The affluent town is home to Hermes, Gucci, Dior, and

Golden Goose where you can design your own bespoke sneakers. But, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind purchase, head straight to Kemo Sabe.

Kemo Sabe is where the rich and famous come to cosplay cowboy — the store is filled with stunning silver jewelry encrusted with chunks of turquoise, boots, belts, and bags — but the main attraction are the cowboy hats, which start at about $300 and can go up to the thousands. Each hat, however, is a custom work of art. They’re individually fitted to your head before the fun starts: You can brand your hat and festoon it with bands, beads, sparkles, playing cards, feathers, and even vintage brooches.

A visit to Kemo Sabe is as crucial to a visit to Aspen as an après-ski moment. I met one of the hatmakers at Hidalgo on my first night in Aspen and he invited me to come down and check out the hats (no obligation). The next afternoon, I strolled in. As I shopped, I was offered a beer from the blue fridge in the back of the store (there’s also a bar upstairs that is rented out for private parties).

I suddenly found myself talking to Kevin Costner, who was walking through the store in a tan barn jacket and shades. I mentioned I was a huge fan of his work and the store manager added, “We all love Yellowstone.” “If you love Yellowstone, you have to go see Horizon,” said Costner, flashing that same smile he used on Susan Sarandon in Bull Durham.

At that very moment, I fell in love…with Aspen.

In a world that increasingly celebrates the next new shiny object, it’s a true cause for celebration when a list acknowledges establishments steeped in history.

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Taste Atlas just released its list of the 100 Most Legendary Restaurants in the World and it reads like a genuine bucket list not only for foodies, but for everyone who wants to explore the world through food, culture, and history.

History proves there have been restaurants in our lives as long as there has been civilization. Visit the ruins of Pompeii and you’ll find wine shops, restaurants, and bakeries along with brothels, baths, and an amphitheater.

But it is rare to actually be able to dine in restaurants centuries old.

This list allows us to discover ancient gems still serving — like Bratwursthausle in Nurenberg which has been making sausages since the 14th century or St. Peter Stiftskulinarium which has served Saltzberg’s elite since the year 803. Yes — single digits.

If you’re looking for something a little more contemporary, Kenya’s the Carnivore might hit the spot. The restaurant, which I visited several years ago, offers various wild game roasted over open fires. The people-watching at Carnivore is even more interesting than the menu. When I went there for dinner, the dining room was awash in color as people from various countries (some in traditional robes and others in navy suits) broke bread together.

In the U.S., it should be no surprise that several New Orleans establishments are recognized on this list including Commandr’s Palace, the venerable old-school behemoth that started the career of a then 23-year-old Emeril Lagasse; and Cafe du Monde, the legendary 24-hour spot for beignets and cafe au lait. Cafe du Monde, unfortunately, has been in the news for something slightly more tragic. The restaurant and its adjoining French Market were evacuated and closed early this morning due to a sagging roof and structural damage. The restaurant is expected to open in a day or so.

In New York City, Peter Luger’s and Katz’s Delicatessen made the list of legends; and in Miami Beach, Joe’s Stone Crab has been serving seafood technically longer than Miami Beach has been around (the original Joe’s, a seafood shack, opened before Miami Beach was chartered as a city). Joe’s is so iconic, that Phil Grier, a longtime waiter at the restaurant, requested his ashes be scattered in the flower garden in the restaurant’s courtyard. It’s rumored that Grier isn’t the only one to call Joe’s their final resting place.

If there ever was a definition of an iconic restaurant, it’s one that you love so much, that you want to spend eternity there.

When I was invited to go to Toronto to try out both its Museum and Brew Passes, I immediately said yes: A weekend of art and craft beer seems like the perfect way to spend an autumn weekend.

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Turns out that not only does Toronto have some amazing breweries and fantastic museums (including one devoted solely to….well, soles), but the city has a vibrant food scene that spans different cultures and price points: from the venerable Tim Hortons for maple doughnuts and coffee to a feast for the eyes and palate at Adrak in Toronto’s tony Yorkville neighborhood, I loved every place I tried (a rarity).

Add in some great rooftop bars, interesting shops, and a few touristy attractions like the CN Tower and a strangely satisfying trip to the aquarium, and Toronto stole my heart in more ways than one.

Where to Stay

The Ace Hotel

Located in Toronto’s Garment District, the Ace Hotel received a Michelin Key for its warm design and hospitality. Guest rooms are a study in convenience — they manage to have everything you want and need and nothing else. A hutch holds a desk and chair so you can work for a bit and then close a door and hide all evidence when you want to relax. A window seat allows you to take in Toronto (I woke up each morning to families frolicking with kids and dogs in the park across the street), and a cozy bed offers a good night’s rest.

Alder

The Hotel is home to Alder, a Michelin-recommended restaurant led by chef Patrick Kriss. Most of Alder’s dishes are kissed by the large wood-fired grill and hearth, and the menu is seasonal and locally sourced. I had a melt-in-your-mouth short rib, followed by blueberry flan. The high point of the meal was the hospitality, though. Tiffany, our server, was not only knowledgeable about the food and cocktails, but when I mentioned that I was into IPAs and was in town to take advantage of the Toronto Brew Pass she sent me a list of her favorite local beers that evening. P.S., her recommendations were spot on and came in handy when trying to navigate through the city’s dozens of breweries.

Evangeline

If you want to say hello to the CN Tower up close and personal, then take the elevator to the Ace Hotel’s rooftop bar, Evangeline. The lounge is a lovely affair: the lush room is flanked by fireplaces to warm up to on a chilly Canadian night. Step outside to toast to a spectacular view of Toronto’s landmark tower.

Where to Eat

Adrak Yorkville

Located in Toronto’s tony Yorkville neighborhood, Adrak is a stunning restaurant. On a Saturday evening, the Michelin-recommended eatery was buzzing. The dining room is splendid: the dining room is a series of beautiful arches in gold and pine green colors that, for some reason, reminded me of dining in a glorious train car during rail travel’s golden era. Adrak offers upscale versions of traditional Indian favorites but the absolute showstopper is its rani kachori — a puffed puri the color of a rose is filled with potatoes, chickpeas, onions, yogurt, and chutney and is garnished with edible flowers. Entranced by its beauty — the dish arrives looking like a giant adorned pomegranate — I was just looking at it before my server did the honors and smashed the glorious dish open. The taste was better than the presentation. Each bite was filled with spicy, tart, piquant, creamy, and cool notes. This will go down as my favorite dish of 2024, for certain.

Tim Horton’s

What can I say — On a Saturday morning, the line at Tim Horton’s across from the Royal Ontario Museum stretched out the door. I am not usually a fan of doughnuts, mostly because they’re just sugar bombs. But Tim’s were yeasty, fluffy, and not as sweet as its American cousins. It's worth a pilgrimage to Canada’s favorite doughnut shop.

Lucie

Chef Arnaud Bloquel helms this Michelin-recommended restaurant where the action (and most seating) is centered around a large, horseshoe bar. The restaurant offers a choice of multi-course menus and serves exquisite French fare in a sophisticated setting that is in no way pretentious, thanks to the bar seating.

Burdock Brewing

If you want a stellar burger, head over to Burdock Brewing. The brewery has more of a brewpub than a large-scale industrial brewery. After a long day of exploring several museums, I needed a cheeseburger and a pint. Burdock offers a fantastic smashburger, which pairs perfectly with its Ducks IPA.

Waterworks Food Hall

Located in the Garment District (across the street from the Ace), you’ll find everything from coffee to ice cream to fresh oysters. I started with some oysters at Island Oysters before moving on to poutine at Dave’s Genuine Deli and a stuffed naan at Karak. I finished with a scoop from Scooped by Demetres.

Where to Drink

Toronto Brew Pass

If you like beer as much as I do, the Toronto Brew Pass is your best friend. Choose between a one-day pass ($22), a three-day pass ($32), or a seven-day pass ($52) and let the games begin. Each pass allows you a flight or pint (depending on the brewery) from your choice of 32 breweries in the Toronto metropolitan area. There are some rules: you can only go to four breweries a day. With a three-day pass loaded onto my phone, I visited 10 breweries in total. My favorites included the goth-inspired Blood Brothers, Burdock (where I paired my free beer with a burger), the baseball-themed Left Field, and the train-themed Steam Whistle Brewing.

What to Do

St. Lawrence Market

Since 1803, St. Lawrence Market has been feeding Toronto. This two-story market is a mecca for shopping for just about anything from oysters to produce to fresh meat. Walking through the market, I fantasized about living in Toronto and shopping at this glorious place while planning a week’s worth of dinners.

Bata Shoe Museum

If Carrie Bradshaw was a museum curator, it would result in the Bata Shoe Museum. This museum runs down the history of the shoe from ancient sandals to modern-day glories. Two current exhibits include an homage to the sneaker and a tribute to the glorious, kitschy styles of the 1980s (from Candie’s to Reeboks). The museum also has many activities and I got to decorate my own shoe to take home.

Royal Ontario Museum

Part art museum, part natural history museum, this massive museum is worth exploring for its Egyptian mummies, extensive Chinese art, and dinosaurs alone (there’s so much more).

CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Whenever I’m in a new city, I hear the call of its observation deck. I decided to go to the CN Tower just as the sun set and it did not disappoint. Unlike other observation decks, there’s not much of a wait for the elevator. I was rewarded with Toronto turning bright orange then indigo.

Ripley’s Aquarium is located on the same campus as the CN Tower, so I dropped in. Moving walkways allow you to watch sharks and sea turtles glide above you before you’re treated to a stingray petting zoo at the end of your journey.

Distillery District

More than 40 shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and two breweries are all located at this former distillery complex. It’s charming to wander the cobblestone streets. Grab a thick, rich hot chocolate from Soma Chocolate Makers or a beer from Old Flame Brewing, or simply shop. Right now, this historic district is hosting a Christmas Market through the holiday season.

When you think of Calgary, maybe you picture Stampede: the city’s annual, ten-day rodeo, which garnered 1.4 million visitors this summer alone.

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Or, perhaps you’re reminded of Alberta’s spirited hockey rivalry between the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames. Some people may know the city best by its surroundings — Banff and the Canadian Rockies sit less than two hours west — while others likely recall the 1988 Olympic Village.

Yet while Calgary has made many a name for itself, Alberta’s largest city has as much depth as it does breadth. Nothing better exemplifies Calgary’s attention to detail than its food scene, which fuses the culinary variety of any major city with the charm and flair of Western Canada. Sure, Calgary may also be known for Alberta beef, but it’s everything but a meat and potatoes kind of place.

Below are suggestions for where to eat, drink, and stay to sample Calgary's scope. Cowboy boots and Flames jerseys are optional, though highly recommended.

Where to Stay

The Westley Hotel

Not far from Prince’s Island Park, The Westley is the perfect launch point for any Calgary adventure, whether taking a Rocky Mountain sidecar tour or strolling to the Central Library. The Westley opened in 2021, transforming a 1970s-era office building into a modern hotel. The lobby’s bright Mexican restaurant, Fonda Fora, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but especially thrives on either end of the day; in the morning, a breakfast burrito pairs best with a horchatta latte, while an evening margarita necessitates chips and guac. 

The Fairmont Palliser 

You can’t mention a stay in any of Canada’s major cities without a reference to the Fairmont. The popular hospitality chain operates hotels across the country, which, in Calgary, materialize via the luxe Palliser, mere steps from the Calgary Tower. The four-star hotel includes both an onsite restaurant and an afternoon tea perfect for a leisurely Saturday. 

The Dorian

Also in the heart of Calgary’s Downtown, the Dorian will appeal to anyone hungry for a story.  The whimsical, Dorian Gray-inspired hotel pays homage to Oscar Wilde, but its most unique dining option caters to children; Bistro Novelle Restaurant operates a digitized, 3-D meal through immersive dining trend, Le Petit Chef. 

Where to Eat

For a classic breakfast with a twist

The Beltliner

Named after a Calgary streetcar, this restaurant straddles the line between an old-school diner and a trendy brunch joint. You can choose between chicken and waffles, sandwiches, and even breakfast poutine, though The Beltliner really shines in its eggs benedict variations. “Benny”s range from a truffle and mushroom iteration to poached eggs topped with maple balsamic bacon jam and a brown butter hollandaise. There’s no rush on finishing your breakfast, either; the restaurant is open until 4 p.m., so you can have the most important meal of the day, all day. 

For food worth sharing 

Orchard Restaurant 

At first glance, Orchard resembles a garden. Hanging and potted plants fill the dining room with snaking, overflowing leaves. Look closer, however, and the restaurant will begin to sparkle, as chandeliers create an atmosphere that’s both lush and opulent. Such duality extends to Orchard’s lunch and dinner menus, where chef Jenny Kang fuses Asian and Mediterranean cuisine across small and large plates. Highlights include the roasted broccoli with gochujang; bulgogi grilled cheese; and grilled romaine with feta and tahini. 

For dinner with a view

Major Tom

On the 40th floor of a Calgary office tower, Major Tom sheds the corporate fabric of the building’s lower levels for a light-filled dining room overlooking the city. On a clear day, you can catch the sunset at golden hour. While not technically a shared-plates restaurant, Major Tom serves a slew of must-tries in potato donuts, smoked sturgeon tots, oyster mushroom cavatelli, and a beef program to savor Alberta’s trademark dish. You don’t have to order plates for the table, but you may want to mix-and-match your entrees as the meal progresses. 

For dinner with an experience 

Shokunin 

If you want to taste a little bit of everything — or don’t feel like agonizing over a menu of choices — sit kitchen-side for Shokunin’s elaborate omakase dinner. As Calgary’s first yakitori restaurant, Shokunin has created an extensive chef’s choice experience that includes scallops, five rounds of skewers, and a wagyu course, among other Japanese-inspired specialties. End the night with a Yuzu sidecar as you await your final course: a sake kasu tiramisu. 

For a taste of old-school Calgary 

Caesar’s 

Most well-trafficked, historic restaurants have at least one claim-to-fame menu item. But Caesar’s — a 1972 institution with two Calgary locations — has a must-have for every course. Start with the Classic Caesar cocktail, a Bloody Mary made with clamato juice, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside. Then, watch the restaurant's chefs sear your 28-day aged steak on an open flame from behind the dining room’s glass panel. Even if you’re someone who always chooses chocolate on a dessert menu, end this meal with the Cherries Jubilee; it’s flambéed tableside and will round off your dinner with just the right amount of fanfare. 

For seasonal, riverside fare

River Cafe

Adjacent to the Bow River, the River Cafe serves Canadian cuisine using herbs, vegetables, berries, and even flowers from its exterior garden. For a sampling of the cafe’s best options, opt for the fish and game board and red lentil hummus. If, by now, you still haven’t tried Alberta beef — or, honestly, even if you have — now’s the time to order steak. River Cafe’s beef tenderloin comes with lion's mane mushrooms, kale chips, and saskatoon berries foraged just outside the restaurant’s doors. 

Where to Drink

For a chic night out 

Even Calgary has its secrets. If you’re looking for an upscale, fun-to-discover speakeasy, you’ll find Charlie’s Watch Repair in the city center, while, closer to the Bow River, you can’t beat Paper Lantern. The drinks come pricier than what you’d find at a more casual bar, but you’re paying for the bars’ atmospheres. Trust us: They’re worth it.  

For a casual drink or a dive bar crawl 

Whether you want to nurse a quick after-dinner beer or have something of a night, you’ll find no shortage of liveliness on Calgary’s 17th Avenue. Start your evening with whatever’s on tap at One Night Stan’s before making your way down the street. If you own a cowboy hat — or have your eye on any from the Inglewood neighborhood’s boutiques — now’s the time to break it out. 

Mexico’s west coast seaside city of Puerto Vallarta is a gorgeous city filled with beautiful beaches that overlook the Sierra Madre mountains and a charming downtown that boasts Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton as two of its past residents.

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Like most of Mexico, Puerta Vallarta offers a plethora of resorts to choose from, but if you like five-star dining and amenities with your beach time, then the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is a great choice in nearby Nuevo Vallarta. The hotel, which received a four-star rating from Forbes, offers swanky rooms, ocean views, and fine dining — all without losing its sense of place.

If you’re planning a trip, there’s no better time than during Dia de los Muertos— when the bridge between the living and the dead opens and loved ones from beyond visit for a brief time each year.

The holiday, traditionally celebrated November 1 and 2, sees families throughout Mexico creating ofrendas — elaborately decorated altars filled with pictures of their deceased family, along with offerings such as favorite foods and drinks. Many cities also host parades, festivals, and concerts. During the two nights of Dia de los Muertos, the local cemeteries are lit by the flames of thousands of candles and the sounds of sadness are replaced by music and laughter as families spend the evening with their departed, eating, drinking, and placing marigolds on their graves.

To commemorate this occasion, the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is celebrating with spirits of a different kind at its second Mexology Fest, a fusion of Mexico’s rich Día de los Muertos traditions and innovative mixology. From October 31 to November 2, guests can participate in immersive workshops, tastings, and spirited evenings led by top mixologists and bars who will be tasked with creating cocktails utilizing Mexican spirits through the lens of the Catrina — the beautiful skeleton woman who has become a symbol of Dia de los Muertos.

The weekend will also include a bar takeover by one of the 50 Best Bars in North America, a sensorial tasting experience, an agave sound bath, and a trip to Tequila — all incorporated into the Dia de los Muertos theme.

The resort also offers a “Raicilla Roots” experience. For those not familiar, racilla is one of Mexico’s oldest spirits, predating tequila and mezcal. The spirit, which dates to the 1500s, uses different agave plants than its well-known cousin spirits, but in Jalisco, raicilla is made at small family-run distilleries called tabernas. The experience takes you deep into the countryside of Jalisco, to the agave fields of Aycya, a local craft raicilla taberna which makes raicilla both in the traditional way and with more modern equipment.

I took the tour last month and, after a 90-minute journey deep into the Sierra Madre mountains, you’re greeted with a welcome cocktail (and the most adorable puppy known to mankind). At this gorgeous backdrop, deep in the countryside, you learn the history of raicilla, guided by a master raicillero before sitting down to an intimate tasting of several different expressions. Once back at the resort, you’re treated to a mixology class where you learn to make cocktails using raicilla.

Back at the resort, make sure you dine at Frida, the AAA Four-Diamond restaurant that offers traditional Mexican fare. If available, opt for the mezcal pairing dinner. After dinner, be sure to wind down the evening at the resort’s lounge Azul.

The resort is a short drive to downtown Puerto Vallarta and its famed Malecon, a lovely seaside walk filled with shops, restaurants, and art. Stroll down the Malecon to the Romantic Zone, known for its cobblestone streets, and be sure to visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a magnificent chapel topped with a crown.

If you’ve built up a thirst, take a break at Los Muertos Brewing to continue your Dia de los Muertos-themed weekend.

If your tastes run more to boating and golfing (or you prefer a lush, yet tranquil experience), Casa Velas is a boutique resort located directly on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and a five-minute drive to the airport. The resort is only a ten-minute walk to both the Puerto Vallarta Marina, where you can enjoy cocktails atop a lighthouse, and Táu Beach Club, where guests of the resort have unlimited access to both beach and dining. I stayed at Casa Velas and, while the suites are charming, it was a little quiet. I heard through the grapevine that it’s a hit with honeymooners who likely prefer to canoodle in the four-poster beds and balcony soak pools. Can’t blame them.

For me, I’ll take a weekend filled with cocktails, culture, and friendly spirits.

All across the United States, people are getting ready to cozy up with a sweater and a pumpkin spice latte.

If you’re sitting with a bowl of soup, dreaming of sipping a cocktail under a palm tree, we’ve got you covered.

Tropical resort destinations like Miami Beach, Paradise Island in the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands are hosting major food festivals where you can sip on cocktails, eat like royalty, and party like a rockstar — all with your toes in the sand.

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The South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The South Beach Wine & Food Festival returns to Miami Beach from February 20 to 23, 2025. The roster of events has just gone live, even before tickets go on sale (Capital One Cardholders will have first dibs on coveted events like the Grand Tasting Village and the Burger Bash from October 21 - 27, 2024 before tickets go on sale to the general public). This is generally one of the largest festivals in the United States with more than 105 dinners, tastings, brunches, and seminars planned.

Most of the signature events happen directly on the beach, but the festival has grown so large, that its footprint now extends to mainland Miami, taking up hotel ballrooms, parks, restaurants, and even a yacht. The festival, celebrating 24 years of fun in the sun, attracts celebrities and tenured chefs who own Michelin-starred establishments. Take, for example, this year’s Tribute Dinner, honoring Dominique Crenn and Gérard Bertrand.

Broken Palate will take a deeper dive into the festival with founder, Lee Schrager in the coming weeks, but for now, plan your weekend here.

Going to the New York City Wine & Food Festival? Broken Palate readers are invited to save 25 percent on tickets to Burger Bash by using code Burger25 at checkout. Find tickets and more at NYCWFF.org.

South Beach Seafood Festival

If you’re the spontaneous type, you have a week to book a ticket to Miami Beach for the South Beach Seafood Festival. The two-day festival runs Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 25 at Lummus Park in South Beach (13th Street and Ocean Drive).

What better way to celebrate the Salt Life than to savor fresh seafood from Miami’s best chefs directly on the sand? The best part of this festival is that each day has a completely different vibe. On Friday Evening, from 7 to 11 p.m., the Chef Showdown features 11 different head-to-head culinary competitions with ticketholders voting on their favorites in each category. There are also live culinary battles, music, dancing, and cocktails. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine hosts the event.

On Saturday afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m., four blocks of Miami Beach will be dedicated to feasting on dishes from the city’s best seafood restaurants. Because this is South Beach, there’ll be plenty of day-drinking and day-club vibes. For more info and tickets, visit sobeseafoodfest.com.

Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival

Now in its third year, this festival checks all the boxes for a delightful getaway. The festival’s home base is Atlantis Paradise Island resort — a lush resort that offers everything from a world-class casino and celebrity chef-driven restaurants to casino gaming and an underwater world filled with sharks and stingrays.

From March 12 to 16, 2025 eat, drink, and mingle with top chefs like Michael Symon, Alon Shaya, JJ Johnson, José Andrés, Michael White, and Bobby Flay. Learn the art of cocktail making from legend Tony Abou-Ganim, experience Bahamian flavors and culture, and dance all night at the Jerk Jam, featuring a performance by Shaggy! Events include an island tour with Michael Symon, a deep dive into the Bahamian culinary treasure, conch with José Andrés, and a rousing gospel brunch with Kardea Brown. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit atlantisbahamas.com.

Cayman Cookout

This famed soiree, held at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, offers food lovers a chance to experience their favorite chefs in an intimate setting. The Cookout package starts at an “oh so affordable” $13,242 and includes breakfast for two, accommodations for the entire weekend, round trip air transportation, and two tickets to the Wednesday Welcome Party, the Thursday Barefoot BBQ, the Friday Discover Cayman, the Sunday Rum and Robusto, and the Sunday Closing Party. It’s expensive, but for foodies, it’s bound to be a weekend to remember. Book your package here.